Big Water Society
The Big Water Society (registered charity number 877945923RR0001) is a Canadian nonprofit organization established in 1996 in Atlin, British Columbia. Initially registered as a BC Society, it attained federal charitable status in 2002. The society focuses on community wellness and youth development through counseling services and supervised programs[1][2].

Mission and Activities
The organization’s mission centers on fostering healthier families and communities by providing accessible mental health support and youth-centered initiatives. Its name derives from the Tlingit term  Tlèn ("Big Water"), the linguistic root of "Atlin"[2]. Key programs include:

• Free counseling services for individuals and families, funded through partnerships with Northern Health Authority’s Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services[1][4].
• Youth engagement via the Atlin Teen Centre, offering supervised activities and skill-building programs in a safe environment[2].

Governance
Operated by a volunteer board of directors, the society historically maintained a structure of up to eight members, including roles such as treasurer, secretary, and chair. Staff include a society coordinator, counselors, and teen center personnel[1][2].

Funding and Impact
Funding sources have evolved since inception, initially relying on provincial health and family-oriented ministries before transitioning to agreements with regional health authorities. The society remains community-driven, emphasizing local participation to sustain its programs[1][4].

Facilities
The organization previously operated from the Taku River Tlingit Social & Health Building for counseling services, later relocating administrative functions to the Atlin Teen Centre[1][2].

Recognition
Designated as a registered charity by the Canada Revenue Agency, the society complies with federal standards for nonprofit operations, focusing on mental health accessibility and youth support in northern British Columbia[3][4].